RFID access control is one of the most useful features in a Level 2 EV charger — and one of the least discussed. It prevents unauthorized use, secures your charger in shared spaces, and gives you granular control over who can charge and when. For some EV owners, it is a daily necessity. For others, it is a useful security measure that adds peace of mind without complicating daily use. Here is everything you need to know.

What RFID Is and How It Works

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. It is a wireless technology that uses radio waves to read data stored in a small chip embedded in a card, key fob, or tag. When an RFID card is tapped against a reader, the reader broadcasts a radio frequency that powers the chip and reads its unique identifier — without any physical contact or battery required in the card itself.

In the context of an EV charger, RFID access control works as follows: the charger is set to require authentication before activating. When you approach to charge, you tap your registered RFID card against the reader on the charger. The charger reads the card’s unique ID, compares it to its list of authorized cards, and if it finds a match, allows the charging session to begin. Without a registered card, the charger does not supply power — even when an EV is plugged in.

How the ShockFlo G1 RFID System Works

The ShockFlo G1 ships with two RFID cards. By default, the charger operates in open mode — any plugged-in vehicle begins charging without requiring a card tap. Enabling RFID lock mode through the ShockFlo app switches the charger to authentication-required mode.

Card management is handled entirely through the app:

• Registering a new card: Navigate to RFID Management in the app, tap “Add Card,” then tap the physical card against the reader. The card is registered within seconds.
• Labeling cards: Each card can be given a name in the app — “Primary,” “Secondary,” “Guest,” “Airbnb” — for easy management.
• Removing access: Deregistering a card in the app immediately revokes its access, even if the physical card still exists. You do not need to retrieve the physical card to terminate its access.
• Adding additional cards: The system supports multiple registered cards simultaneously, allowing access for multiple authorized users.

Who Needs RFID Access Control

RFID vs App-Based Authentication

Some chargers use app-based authentication rather than physical RFID cards — requiring the owner to approve each session through a smartphone app. The practical difference matters in daily use:

• RFID cards: Work without a smartphone, without cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity, and without any app action during the session. Tap and done. Can be given to other users who do not have the app.
• App authentication: Requires the smartphone to be present and the app to be open or responsive. Cannot be delegated without sharing account credentials. Fails if the phone battery is dead or signal is poor.

The ShockFlo G1 supports both physical RFID cards and remote enable/disable through the app — combining the reliability of card-based access with the convenience of remote management from anywhere.

What Happens Without an RFID Card

When RFID lock mode is active on the ShockFlo G1, a vehicle plugged in without a valid card tap enters a “waiting for authentication” state. The J1772 pilot signal indicates to the vehicle that a charger is connected but authorization has not been granted. The vehicle recognizes this state and does not begin drawing power. The charger’s LED indicator shows an authentication pending state. No power flows until a registered card is tapped.

Removing a registered card from the ShockFlo app immediately revokes access — the next session attempted with that card will be rejected, even if the physical card is still physically present at the charger.

Conclusion

RFID access control addresses a practical problem that affects a substantial portion of EV owners: how to secure a charger in a location where unauthorized use is a realistic concern. For shared parking, rental properties, and workplace installations, it is a near-essential feature. For private homeowners with fully secure garages, it is a useful security addition. The ShockFlo G1 includes RFID access as a standard feature at $189 — notable because most chargers at this price tier do not. The ShockFlo S1 also includes RFID. Browse the full lineup at portable EV chargers.